Introduction
After a car accident that wasn’t your fault, most UK drivers ask:
“Do I get a courtesy car?”
The short answer — it depends on who arranges your claim.
If you rely on your insurer or garage, you might get a small courtesy car (if available).
But if you work with Nova Motor Assist, you’ll receive a like-for-like replacement vehicle, delivered quickly and with no upfront cost.
Let’s break down how courtesy cars really work in the UK and how you can ensure you’re never left off the road.
If you’re not at fault, you’re entitled to a replacement car — but insurers often offer only small courtesy cars. Through Nova Motor Assist, non-fault drivers get a like-for-like credit hire vehicle, delivered fast and with no cost to you.
What Is a Courtesy Car?
A courtesy car is a temporary vehicle provided while yours is being repaired — usually by your garage or insurer.
However, most courtesy cars:
- Are small, basic vehicles.
- Depend on availability at the repair shop.
- Aren’t guaranteed in your insurance policy.
So if you drive a 7-seater, hybrid, or taxi, a basic hatchback may not meet your needs — or you may get nothing at all.
Credit Hire vs Courtesy Car — What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Courtesy Car | Credit Hire Vehicle (Nova Motor Assist) |
| Cost to You | Usually free, but limited by policy | No cost if you’re not at fault |
| Vehicle Type | Basic small car | Like-for-like replacement |
| Availability | Subject to garage or insurer stock | Guaranteed nationwide |
| Duration | Until repairs are complete | Until your claim is fully settled |
| Eligibility | Depends on your insurer | Available to all non-fault drivers |
👉 With Nova Motor Assist, you’ll get the same class of vehicle — whether that’s a PCO car, van, or family SUV — so you can keep working or travelling comfortably.
When Am I Entitled to a Courtesy or Replacement Car?
You can get a replacement vehicle if:
- The accident wasn’t your fault.
- The other driver’s insurer accepts liability (or it’s proven later).
- Your vehicle is being repaired or written off.
Even if the other driver was uninsured or untraced, Nova Motor Assist can help via the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB).
How Nova Motor Assist Helps Non-Fault Drivers
- Immediate FNOL reporting – we record your accident details 24/7.
- Like-for-like replacement vehicle – delivered within hours, not days.
- No upfront payment – we recover hire costs from the at-fault insurer.
- Repair management – your car is repaired at an approved UK body shop.
- ULR support – recover your policy excess and lost income.
Example Case: Non-Fault Taxi Driver in Manchester
A taxi driver’s PCO vehicle was hit and couldn’t operate for two weeks. The insurer offered a small hatchback.
Nova Motor Assist provided a licensed hybrid replacement taxi within hours, handled the repair, and recovered all hire and repair costs from the at-fault insurer.
FAQs: Courtesy Car After Non-Fault Accident UK
Not always. Insurers often only offer one if your policy includes it. Nova Motor Assist guarantees a replacement for all non-fault drivers.
A courtesy car is basic and limited by availability. A hire car (via credit hire) is like-for-like, delivered fast, and free if you’re not at fault.
Until your car is repaired or your claim is fully settled.
No. If you’re not at fault, the cost is recovered from the at-fault insurer.
Nova Motor Assist handles the claim and provides evidence to prove liability while keeping you on the road.
Conclusion
You deserve a proper replacement vehicle after a non-fault accident — not a downgrade or long wait.
At Nova Motor Assist, we make sure every non-fault driver stays mobile with a like-for-like replacement car, fast repairs, and full claim management.
👉 Don’t wait on your insurer — call Nova Motor Assist and get back on the road today.